Exciting New Tech Academy Launches in Atlanta
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as a promising new initiative called Tech Academy is set to kick off later this month. This four-month training course, a collaboration between Atlanta Metropolitan State College and the Center for Sustainable Communities, aims to equip ten residents from Southwest Atlanta with essential technology and programming skills, helping them to step confidently into the job market.
What’s in Store for Participants
The doors for applications close on Monday, September 16. Participants will dive into the program on September 24, with a curriculum designed to ignite their tech knowledge and enthusiasm. Each participant will gain access to ten Codecademy courses and receive a laptop to ensure they can study comfortably and effectively. But that’s not all! Throughout the four months, they will benefit from dedicated tutoring, boasting two-hour weekly office hour sessions where they can get help with their coursework.
The Inspiration Behind Tech Academy
The initiative was partly inspired by Hannah Searles, an intern with the Center for Sustainable Communities. Searles mentioned, “The program was one of my projects this summer; it sort of developed last summer with previous interns.” Her goal was a simple yet powerful one: to create opportunities for adults in Southwest Atlanta who lack access to computer programming education.
A Broader Vision
Originally conceived as a branch of the Center for Sustainable Communities focused on app development and environmental justice, the Tech Academy has evolved into an exciting educational opportunity. By utilizing established courses, the program facilitators can spend meaningful time tutoring and guiding participants as they explore new tech skills. “We’re providing support as they take this course,” Searles explained, “but it’s a course that’s already established.”
Building Futures
The ultimate aim of Tech Academy is to help participants land jobs in the tech industry. To achieve this, participants will not only complete their courses but also receive key support in job searching, including lists of viable job opportunities and resume reviews. “We’re trying to get people involved in careers,” Searles noted. “We’re trying to create that bridge for folks who didn’t have access due to those original barriers.”
A Promising Start
Excitement is already brewing as more applicants than anticipated have shown interest—38 people had expressed interest in the program as of September 11! With just five days left before the application deadline, the program is shaping up to be a fantastic opportunity for those in the community. No prior experience is needed, making it accessible for anyone eager to learn.
Looking Ahead
If initial response is any indicator, Tech Academy might be just the beginning. Searles mentioned the potential for the program to be repeated—or even expanded—yearly, driven by the desire evident in the applications: “This is definitely a program that we’re going to try to do yearly, if not twice a year.” Isn’t that exciting?
Measuring Success
To ensure participants are getting the most out of the program, organizers will track engagement and goal completion. They will evaluate how well participants are engaging with the material and whether they are successfully finding job placements after graduation. It’s all about making sure the program is genuinely helping to pave the way for fulfilling careers!
If you’re in the Atlanta area and know someone who could benefit from this uplifting opportunity, don’t wait—encourage them to apply before it’s too late. Tech Academy is ready to help bridge the gap for those eager to step into the digital age!
